Relaxnews

Design concepts for "households of the future" have been submitted to the annual Electrolux Design Lab competition, and the resulting ideas are as wacky as they are intelligent.

Innovative project proposals have poured in from 43 countries around the world, a shortlist of 100 ideas has been selected and the public vote is now open.

Concepts include 'anti-smog sportswear' which dispels pollution, a modular garden pod which grows vegetables and compost and a 'lightsaber knife' made from liquid metal which changes functions at the touch of a screen.

The competition brief called for products, accessories and services for "creating healthy homes," with a focus on "culinary enjoyment, fabric care and air purification."

Home appliance company Electrolux holds the competition annually, with a different theme each year. Applicants to develop their concepts throughout the process.

"We are excited to open up the voting to the public and our employees around the world," says Lars Erikson, Electrolux Head of Group Design. "We received some really innovative, visually inspiring concepts based on this year's theme."

Public voting for the Electrolux Design Lab competition will run through May 16 and more information can be found at electroluxdesignlab.com